Mimi's Protein Balls

My 14 year old daughter has a penchant for the protein balls on offer at cafe's and juice bars these days, and she adores the Bliss Balls from the health food store.

I often make her my Raw Chocolate Truffles I posted in the forum a while back, but sometimes she doesn't feel chocolate-y.

So I came up with these. They are more of a caramel flavoured variation. I did a lot of research on the difference between whey protein powder and normal milk powder. Whey is a byproduct of cheese or yoghurt making, and is the liquid that we all see in our yoghurt that we stir back in, or drain to make the yoghurt thicker. So in theory, you could replace the liquid in these protein balls, with that liquid for a better quality protein content. Other than that, as best as I can determine, there is no real benefit in using whey protein over milk powder, unless you are casein or lactose intolerant. Someone out there is making a lotta money out of that little bit of ignorance. I guess it's different if you're an athlete or body builder perhaps, but for we mere mortals, I'd use the milk powder. Skimmed if you prefer.

Rice Malt Syrup is available in the health food aisle at the supermarket and is a great low GI alternative to honey or golden syrup.

These are a great no bake treat if you're short on time too.

Mimi's Protein Balls

Makes 14

1 cup peanut butter

3 tablespoons Rice Malt Syrup (or honey or golden syrup)

1/2 cup powdered milk powder

1/2 cup dessicated coconut

1 teaspoon vanilla or coconut essence

Water to form a thick paste, maybe 1-2 tablespoons

Stir all ingredients together with a spoon until crumbly, adding the liquid to form a thick paste, similar in texture to cookie dough.

Roll into large teaspoon sized balls and roll in coconut or almond meal before chilling. Today I rolled hers in almond meal and she particularly loves this.

These are very yummy and healthy and you can also use coconut oil, macadamia butter, tahini or almond butter instead of peanut butter, and for an evil half-healthy treat, dip them in melted chocolate.